Top 5 Best Thick Yoga Mat 2024

By GirlBoss Team | February 10, 2024

Yoga is a popular exercise that has been around for centuries. It is known for its ability to improve flexibility, balance, and overall wellbeing. One of the essential pieces of equipment for yoga practitioners is a yoga mat. A yoga mat provides a comfortable and stable surface for yoga poses, making it easier to perform them correctly.

When it comes to yoga mats, thickness is an important factor to consider. A thick yoga mat provides more cushioning, which is especially important for those with joint pain or who practice yoga on hard surfaces. A thick mat can also provide more stability, making it easier to maintain balance during standing poses.

When looking for the best thick yoga mat, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the material. Yoga mats can be made from a variety of materials, including rubber, PVC, and TPE. Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. The second thing to consider is the size of the mat. A larger mat may be more comfortable for taller individuals, while a smaller mat may be easier to transport.

We spent hours researching and testing ten of the best thick yoga mats on the market to identify the ones that provide the most comfort and stability.

Best Thick Yoga Mats

We understand that finding the right yoga mat can make all the difference in your practice. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best thick yoga mats available on Amazon. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, these mats will provide the support and cushioning you need for a comfortable and effective practice. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best thick yoga mats on Amazon.

Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink

If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable yoga mat, the Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink is a great option.

Pros

Provides a plush cushion for comfortable exercise
Textured surface provides extra traction
Durable foam construction offers stretchability and springs back into shape

Cons

May have a slight odor at first
May not be long enough for taller individuals
May not be suitable for hot yoga

We’ve been using this yoga mat for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its quality and comfort. The extra thickness provides a soft cushion that makes it easy to do yoga and other exercises without discomfort. The textured surface also provides extra traction, so you don’t have to worry about slipping or sliding during your workout.

One thing to note is that the mat may have a slight odor at first, but it goes away after a few uses. Additionally, if you’re taller, you may find that the mat isn’t long enough for your needs. Finally, if you’re into hot yoga, this mat may not be suitable as it doesn’t have the same grip as some other mats specifically designed for hot yoga.

Overall, we highly recommend the Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable yoga mat.

Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat

If you’re looking for a yoga mat that provides extra thickness and comfort, the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is a great choice.

Pros

The 1-inch thickness of the mat provides excellent cushioning for your joints.
The non-slip material helps keep you steady and balanced during your practice.
The durable material ensures that the mat can withstand everyday use.

Cons

The thickness of the mat may not be suitable for those who prefer a thinner mat.
The mat may have a slight odor when first opened, but it dissipates quickly.
The mat may be difficult to roll up and store due to its thickness.

We’ve been using the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its quality. The extra thickness of the mat provides excellent cushioning for our joints, making it comfortable to practice yoga, Pilates, and other floor exercises. The non-slip material keeps us steady and balanced during our practice, which is especially important when holding challenging poses.

The Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is also durable and can withstand everyday use. We appreciate that it comes with a nylon carrying strap, which makes it easy to transport from our home to the studio. The mat is also easy to clean with a mix of gentle soap and water.

While we appreciate the thickness of the mat, it may not be suitable for those who prefer a thinner mat. Additionally, the mat may have a slight odor when first opened, but it dissipates quickly. Lastly, the thickness of the mat may make it difficult to roll up and store, especially if you’re short on storage space.

Overall, we recommend the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat for anyone looking for a thick, comfortable, and durable yoga mat.

Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat with Easy-Cinch Yoga Mat Carrier Strap

If you’re looking for a thick yoga mat that provides ample cushioning and support, then the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is worth considering.

Pros

The 2/5 inch thickness of the mat provides excellent cushioning and support, making it ideal for all types of fitness and exercise routines, including yoga, Pilates, and floor exercises.
The soft NBR foam material of the mat is designed to provide comfortable stretching and posing, making it an ideal choice for beginners or anyone who wants a more comfortable yoga mat.
The included yoga mat carrier strap makes it easy to carry the mat to and from your yoga class or gym.

Cons

Some users have reported that the mat can be slippery, especially when used with sweaty hands or feet.
The mat may have a strong chemical smell when first opened, which can take some time to dissipate.
The mat may not be as durable as some other yoga mats on the market, and may show signs of wear and tear after extended use.

Overall, we think that the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat is a solid choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, supportive yoga mat that provides ample cushioning for all types of exercises. While there are some minor downsides to the mat, such as its potential slipperiness and chemical smell, these issues can be mitigated with proper care and use. If you’re in the market for a new yoga mat, we recommend giving the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat a try.

POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat With Strap Included – Ultra Absorbent Exercise Mat – Non Slip Yoga Mat – Large Yoga Mat for Women – Wide Yoga Mat, Thick Texture for Stylish Support Starry Night

If you’re looking for a yoga mat that is both stylish and functional, the POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat is definitely worth considering.

Pros

The non-slip surface ensures stability and safety during your workout.
The thick cushioning provides excellent joint support and comfort.
The vegan suede top layer is ultra-absorbent and sweat-wicking, making it perfect for hot yoga sessions.

Cons

The mat has a strong smell when first opened, so it needs to be aired out before use.
The suede top layer requires extra care when cleaning to maintain its color and texture.
The mat is relatively heavy compared to other options, which may make it less convenient for travel.

We’ve been using the POPFLEX mat for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The non-slip surface really does provide excellent grip, even during intense workouts, and the cushioning is thick enough to protect our joints without being too squishy.

One thing to note is that the mat does have a strong smell when first opened, but this dissipates after a few days of airing out. We also appreciate the included carrying strap, which makes it easy to take the mat to and from the gym or studio.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat to anyone looking for a high-quality and stylish yoga mat that provides both comfort and stability during their workouts.

Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat 1″ Thick w/Nylon Strap

We highly recommend the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat for anyone looking for a durable and comfortable yoga mat.

Pros

The 1-inch thickness provides excellent support and cushioning for joints, hips, hands, and knees.
The non-slip grip keeps you steady and balanced during your practice, preventing injury.
The mat is easy to clean and comes with a nylon carrying strap for easy transport.

Cons

The mat may initially release a harmless odor, so it’s recommended to air it out for a day or two before using.
The 1-inch thickness may not be suitable for those who prefer a thinner mat.
The ribbed texture may not be suitable for those who prefer a smooth surface.

We found the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat to be an excellent investment for our yoga practice. The 1-inch thickness provides ample cushioning and support, making it comfortable to practice for extended periods. The non-slip grip kept us steady and balanced during even the most challenging poses, preventing any slips or falls.

The mat’s durable material allows for everyday use, regardless of the intensity of your exercise routine. It’s also easy to clean, requiring only a mix of gentle soap and water. We appreciated the included nylon carrying strap, which made it easy to transport the mat from our home practice to studio classes.

However, we did notice a slight odor upon first unrolling the mat, which dissipated after a day or two of airing it out. Additionally, the 1-inch thickness may not be suitable for those who prefer a thinner mat, and the ribbed texture may not be ideal for those who prefer a smooth surface.

Overall, the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a thick and comfortable yoga mat that provides ample support and cushioning.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best thick yoga mat, there are a few important factors to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The material of the mat is one of the most important considerations. Look for a mat that is made from high-quality, non-toxic materials that won’t break down over time. Some popular materials include:

PVC: This is the most common material used for yoga mats. It’s durable and affordable, but it’s not the most eco-friendly option.
TPE: This material is a more environmentally friendly option. It’s made from non-toxic, biodegradable materials.
Natural rubber: Mats made from natural rubber are eco-friendly and provide excellent grip. However, they can be more expensive than other options.

Thickness

The thickness of the mat is another important factor to consider. A thicker mat will provide more cushioning and support, which can be beneficial for people with joint pain or who practice yoga on hard surfaces. Look for mats that are at least 6mm thick.

Texture

The texture of the mat can affect your grip and comfort during yoga practice. Some mats have a smooth surface, while others have a textured surface that provides more grip. Consider your personal preferences and the type of yoga you practice when choosing a mat with the right texture.

Size

Make sure to choose a mat that is the right size for your body. Most standard yoga mats are around 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, but taller individuals may need a longer mat. Consider the portability of the mat as well if you plan on carrying it to and from yoga classes.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best thick yoga mat for your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What thickness of yoga mat is ideal for beginners?

For beginners, a yoga mat with a thickness of 6mm or 8mm is ideal. This thickness provides enough cushioning to support the joints and prevent injuries, while still allowing for stability and balance during poses.

How does mat thickness impact back pain relief during yoga?

A thicker yoga mat can provide more cushioning and support for the spine, which can help alleviate back pain during yoga practice. However, it is important to note that the thickness of the mat is not the only factor that affects back pain relief. Proper alignment, technique, and modification of poses can also play a significant role.

Which yoga mat thickness is most suitable for seniors?

Seniors may benefit from a thicker yoga mat, such as an 8mm mat, as it can provide extra cushioning and support for the joints. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise routine.

What are the pros and cons of using an extra-thick yoga mat?

The main advantage of using an extra-thick yoga mat is the added cushioning and support it provides for the joints. However, a thicker mat can also make it more difficult to balance in certain poses, and may not be as portable or easy to store as a thinner mat.

How do I choose between a 6mm and an 8mm yoga mat?

When choosing between a 6mm and 8mm yoga mat, consider your personal preferences and needs. If you have sensitive joints or are prone to injuries, an 8mm mat may be more suitable. However, if you prefer a more stable surface for balancing poses, a 6mm mat may be a better option.

What factors should I consider when selecting a thick yoga mat for durability and comfort?

When selecting a thick yoga mat, consider the material, texture, and weight of the mat. Look for a mat made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand regular use. A textured surface can provide better grip and prevent slipping, while a lightweight mat can be more portable and easier to carry to and from class.

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